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itel A90 Review: Affordable and Durable for Everyday Basics

The itel A90 is an entry-level smartphone designed for users who need essential smartphone functionality at the lowest possible cost. It focuses on affordability, durability, and usability, making it a strong choice for first-time smartphone owners or those on a tight budget.

Key Features

Display

The itel A90 comes with a 6.6-inch HD+ (720 x 1612 pixels) IPS LCD display featuring a 90Hz refresh rate. This ensures smoother scrolling and a pleasant viewing experience, especially at this price point.

Performance and Storage

Powered by a Unisoc T7100 octa-core processor, it’s paired with 3GB or 4GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB internal storage. The dedicated microSD card slot supports expansion up to 2TB, offering plenty of flexibility for media storage.

Camera Setup

  • Rear: 13MP main camera with an auxiliary lens and LED flash

  • Front: 5MP or 8MP selfie camera with AI Beauty Mode

The camera setup is functional for basic photography and casual social media use, but don’t expect high-end performance.

Battery and Charging

A 5000mAh battery powers the device, providing a full day of use for light users. Charging is handled via 10W or 15W wired charging, depending on the model.

Software and Other Features

The A90 runs on Android 14 (Go Edition) with itel OS 14, optimized for smoother performance on lower-end hardware. It includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, IP54 rating (for dust and splash resistance), and some models include a Dynamic Bar for quick access to notifications and shortcuts.

Performance and Everyday Use

The Unisoc T7100, combined with Android Go, handles essential tasks like calls, messages, and social media (especially Lite versions) efficiently. It’s not meant for heavy multitasking or advanced gaming, but for simple daily use, it’s perfectly serviceable. The 90Hz screen refresh rate gives it a surprisingly smooth feel during basic navigation.

Camera Capabilities

The 13MP main camera performs best in good daylight, producing acceptable photos with limited dynamic range. Low-light shots tend to be grainy, while the front camera (5MP/8MP) works fine for video calls and casual selfies. Overall, the camera is functional but basic, which is expected in this segment.

Price in Nigeria

As of May 2025, the itel A90 is priced between ₦89,900 and ₦115,000, depending on the configuration and retailer. This positions it among the most affordable smartphones in Nigeria.

Reasons to Buy

  • Very affordable price

  • Large 6.6-inch display with 90Hz refresh rate

  • Strong 5000mAh battery for all-day use

  • Android 14 (Go Edition) optimized for low-end hardware

  • Expandable storage up to 2TB

  • IP54 dust and splash resistance

  • Side-mounted fingerprint sensor

Reasons to Reconsider

  • Limited performance for multitasking or gaming

  • Basic camera quality, especially in low light

  • HD+ display resolution lacks sharpness

  • Slow charging on the 10W variant

Verdict: A Simple and Reliable Entry-Level Phone

The itel A90 delivers excellent value for money for users who want a simple, reliable device for calls, messages, browsing, and light social media. Its large display, solid battery life, and splash resistance make it stand out among low-cost phones.

However, if you expect faster performance or a better camera experience, you’ll need to look slightly higher up the price ladder. For its price, though, the itel A90 nails the basics with surprising polish.

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